Picture a typical view of Scotland and you might be imagining Perth and Kinross. This charming region encompasses a scattering of glistening lochs, the edges of Cairngorms National Park and world-class golf courses. Enter a region of historic distilleries, elegant castles and wild landscapes.
Start your journey in Perth, a small city with an enticing collection of art galleries, bars and cafés. One of the city’s major attractions is Scone Palace, where you can spend hours lost in vast collections of antiques and paintings. Learn about military history in the Black Watch Castle and Museum, home of Scotland’s famous infantry regiment.
The old-world town of Kinross sits on the banks of peaceful Loch Leven. The castle in the center of the lake was once the prison of Mary, Queen of Scots. Head to Vane Farm for the great bird-watching opportunities, where you could spot pink-footed geese and osprey skimming over the water.
Hop between the castles of the region. Blair Castle was once the home of nobles and the base for the Atholl Highlanders, a private army. This impressive attraction features over 30 rooms that are open to the public, including a Victorian ballroom and a dining room for welcoming nobility. Visit Drummond Castle to explore some of the finest formal gardens in Scotland.
Hike on trails that wind alongside lochs and into the heart of Cairngorms National Park. Paths around Queen’s View offer panoramic views of Loch Tummel and the peak of Schiehallion.
Sip on whisky made using time-honored methods. Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery features an extensive tour where you can taste spirits straight from the barrel. Head to Pitlochry for a visit to Blair Athol Distillery, which first started brewing in 1798.
Join golfers on a pilgrimage to Gleneagles. This internationally celebrated golf destination features three championship-standard courses.
Scotland’s train network runs throughout Perth and Kinross, although the region is most easily explored by car. Visit in summer for long days spent hiking across dramatic moorland, or visit in fall to see the woods break into autumnal colors.